iMax B6 Battery Charger: A Guide to RC Battery Charging
, by UMW Media, 7 min reading time
Choosing the right charger helps you maintain your RC batteries and get more from your hobby. The iMax B6 battery charger is a multifunction charger designed for several battery chemistries, including LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, NiMH, NiCd and lead-acid batteries. This Hobby Inn bundle also includes a power supply, UK power lead, LiPo safe bag and a selection of connector leads.
Whether you run an RC car, work on other RC models or maintain different battery packs, understanding your charger's features is important for safe and suitable charging.
What Is an iMax B6 Battery Charger?
The iMax B6 is an intelligent battery charger and discharger with an LCD screen. It supports multiple battery types, making it a useful option for RC hobbyists who use different battery packs.
One of its key features is cell balancing for compatible lithium battery packs. Balance charging helps manage individual cell voltages within a pack, which is particularly important when charging multi-cell LiPo batteries.
The charger also offers adjustable charging and discharging currents, battery storage functions and memory for saving settings for different battery packs.
Key Features of the iMax B6 RC Charger
The iMax B6 bundle from Hobby Inn includes several features designed to support everyday RC battery maintenance.
- Multi-chemistry charging: Supports LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, NiMH, NiCd and lead-acid batteries within the charger's specified limits.
- Balance charging: Supports individual cell balancing for compatible Li-ion, LiPo and LiFe battery packs.
- Charging and discharging: Allows charging and discharging within the rated current and power limits.
- LCD screen: Displays charging information and settings.
- Battery storage function: Includes a storage mode for preparing compatible batteries for storage.
- Data memory: Can store settings for up to five battery packs.
- Battery cycling: Supports battery break-in and cycling functions for compatible battery types.
- Input voltage monitoring: Includes input voltage monitoring to help protect the power source.
Always check your battery's chemistry, cell count, voltage and manufacturer's charging instructions before selecting a charging programme.
iMax B6 Charger Specifications
Here are the main specifications provided for this product.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Charger type | RC battery charger and discharger |
| Maximum charging power | Up to 80W, as listed for this model |
| Charging current | 0.1–6.0A in the 80W specification |
| Maximum discharge power | 5W |
| Discharge current | 0.1–2.0A in the 80W specification |
| Input voltage | DC 11–18V |
| LiPo, Li-ion and LiFe batteries | 1–6 cells |
| NiCd and NiMH batteries | 1–15 cells in series |
| Lead-acid battery voltage | 2–20V |
| Included power adaptor | 12V DC, 5A, 60W |
| Display | LCD screen |
Important: The charger’s maximum charging power is up to 80W, but the included adaptor is rated at 60W. Actual charging performance depends on the power supply, battery voltage and charging settings. The 80W rating does not mean every battery can be charged at 80W.
Which Batteries Can the iMax B6 Charge?
The iMax B6 supports several battery chemistries, but each type requires the correct programme and settings.
LiPo batteries
LiPo batteries are widely used in RC cars, drones and other radio-controlled models. The iMax B6 supports 1S to 6S LiPo packs and provides a balance-charging function for compatible batteries.
Select the correct cell count and charging current for your particular battery. Never assume that all LiPo batteries use the same settings.
Li-ion batteries
The charger supports compatible lithium-ion battery packs from 1 to 6 cells. Check the battery's specifications and use the appropriate charging programme.
LiFe batteries
LiFe batteries are another lithium-based option used in certain RC and hobby applications. The iMax B6 includes support for compatible LiFe packs, including balance charging.
NiMH and NiCd batteries
The charger also supports nickel-metal hydride and nickel-cadmium batteries, with the listing specifying 1–15 cells in series. Choose the correct battery type before starting a charge.
Lead-acid batteries
The listed lead-acid voltage range is 2–20V. Confirm that your battery falls within the supported range and follow the battery manufacturer's charging instructions.
What Comes with This iMax B6 Charger Bundle?
This bundle includes more than the charger itself, making it convenient for hobbyists who need a range of accessories.
- iMax B6 battery charger
- 12V DC, 5A power adaptor
- UK power cable
- LiPo safe bag
- XT60 male to T-plug female connector
- T-plug female to JST male connector
- T-plug female to crocodile clips
- T-plug female to JR plug
- Banana plug to T-plug male connector
- Crocodile clips to 5.5 × 2.1mm DC male connector
- T-plug female to glow ignitor connector
- English instruction manual
Before connecting a battery, confirm that the connector, polarity and electrical ratings are suitable. Never force an incompatible plug into a connector.
Why Does Balance Charging Matter for LiPo Batteries?
A multi-cell LiPo battery contains several cells connected together. Over time, individual cell voltages can differ. Balance charging helps the charger monitor and balance the cells during the charging process.
Using the correct balance-charge programme can help you maintain your battery properly. However, balance charging does not make a damaged or swollen battery safe to use.
For better battery care:
- Inspect the battery, wires and connectors before charging.
- Use the correct programme and cell count.
- Charge at the current recommended by the battery manufacturer.
- Place the battery on a suitable, non-combustible surface in a well-ventilated area.
- Never leave a charging battery unattended.
- Stop charging if the battery becomes unusually hot, swollen or damaged.
- Follow the manufacturer's guidance for storage and handling.
The included LiPo safe bag provides an additional storage and handling accessory, but it does not eliminate the risk of fire or guarantee that a battery failure will be contained.
Is the iMax B6 Battery Charger Suitable for You?
The iMax B6 may be worth considering if you use several supported battery types and want charging, discharging, balancing and storage functions in one unit.
It can be useful for RC hobbyists who need a charger for compatible LiPo packs alongside NiMH, NiCd, Li-ion, LiFe or lead-acid batteries. The included power adaptor, UK power lead, connector accessories and LiPo safe bag also provide a practical starter bundle.
Before buying, check the charger specifications against your batteries. In particular, confirm the chemistry, cell count, connector type, required charging current and power requirements.
Buy the iMax B6 Battery Charger from Hobby Inn
Hobby Inn offers the iMax B6 80W RC LiPo battery charger bundle with a power supply, UK power lead, LiPo safe bag and connector accessories.
The listed price is £29.99 including VAT, reduced from £34.99. Stock and pricing can change, so check the product page for current availability before ordering.
If you need a multifunction RC battery charger for compatible battery packs, review the full specifications and included accessories to see whether this bundle suits your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What batteries can the iMax B6 charger support?
The listed model supports compatible LiPo, Li-ion, LiFe, NiMH, NiCd and lead-acid batteries. You must select the correct charging programme and remain within the specified voltage, cell-count and current limits.
2. Can the iMax B6 charge a 6S LiPo battery?
The listed specifications support LiPo batteries from 1S to 6S. Check the battery's voltage and charging requirements, and use the correct balance-charge settings.
3. Does this iMax B6 bundle include a UK power supply?
Yes. The package includes a 12V DC, 5A power adaptor and a UK power cable. The adaptor is rated at 60W, so actual charging performance is subject to its output and the charger's operating limits.
4. Does the iMax B6 support balance charging?
Yes. The product description specifies individual cell balancing for compatible Li-ion, LiPo and LiFe battery packs. Use the correct programme for your battery.
5. Is a LiPo safe bag included?
Yes. A LiPo safe bag is included in this bundle. It is an additional battery-handling accessory, not a guarantee against fire or a replacement for safe charging practices.
